GAROWE – The Puntland administration has stated that no foreign or domestic company, including Turkish firms, may conduct fishing, maritime investment, or other commercial activities in Puntland’s territorial waters without prior authorization from Puntland authorities.

In a press statement, the administration said that all activities involving Puntland’s land and marine resources require approval from the region’s competent institutions.

The statement specifically referred to SOMTURK, saying the company cannot undertake fishing investments, coastal protection projects, or other operations within Puntland’s jurisdiction without obtaining the necessary permits from the Puntland government.

Puntland also argued that the Federal Government of Somalia does not have the legal authority to unilaterally grant licenses, concessions, or agreements involving natural resources located within Puntland. The administration said such matters should be governed in accordance with both Somalia’s Provisional Federal Constitution and the Puntland Constitution.

The regional government warned that companies or organizations operating in Puntland’s territory or maritime zones without official authorization would face legal and regulatory action under Puntland’s laws.

The statement comes amid continuing disagreements between the Federal Government and several federal member states over the management of natural resources, investment agreements, and the division of constitutional powers.

Puntland’s statement reinforces its long-standing position that it has primary authority over natural resource management within its territory. The dispute highlights ongoing constitutional disagreements between Puntland and the Federal Government regarding control over fisheries, offshore resources, and investment agreements with foreign companies.